Teddy Roosevelt Terrier
AKC Terrier Group
Recognized in 2026
Is This the Right Breed for You?
✔ Excellent Match For
- Active individuals and families seeking an energetic, playful companion
- Owners who appreciate a smart, trainable small dog
- Those looking for a low-maintenance, short-coated breed
• Excellent vermin hunter: bred for farm work and ratting.
• Highly intelligent: eager to please and quick learners.
• Affectionate and loyal: forms strong bonds with family members.
• Low grooming needs: short, smooth coat requires minimal care.
✖ Consider Carefully If
- You have small pets (strong prey drive toward rodents and small animals)
- You prefer a sedentary lifestyle (they need regular exercise)
- You want a quiet dog (they are alert and will bark)
• High energy: requires daily exercise and mental stimulation.
• Strong prey drive: may chase small animals and rodents.
• Terrier independence: can be stubborn and determined.
• Vocal breed: alert barkers who will announce visitors.
Owner Suitability
The Teddy Roosevelt Terrier is a spirited, energetic little dog perfect for active individuals and families seeking a smart, playful companion. Their trainable nature and low-maintenance coat make them excellent pets, but prospective owners must accept their high energy levels, prey drive, and tendency to bark. Best suited for those who can provide regular exercise and appreciate a true terrier personality.Stats:
- Height: 8-15 inches
- Weight: 8-25 pounds
- Coat: Short, smooth, and glossy
- Colors: White with black, chocolate, or tan markings
- Lifespan: 14-18 years
Note: Teddy Roosevelt Terrier is a low-shedding breed with minimal grooming needs. Regular exercise and mental stimulation are essential for this energetic terrier.
Origin & History
The Teddy Roosevelt Terrier originated in the United States during the early 20th century. Named after President Theodore Roosevelt, who was known to have similar farm dogs, this breed was developed from the Rat Terrier and other small terrier types to create a versatile farm dog capable of vermin control and companionship. They were previously known as the 'Type B Rat Terrier'.
Sharing a common ancestry with the their 'cousin' the Rat Terrier, the Teddy Roosevelt Terrier is distinguished by its lower-set build, shorter legs, greater muscle mass, and denser bone structure.
They were prized on American farms for their ratting ability, tenacity, and friendly disposition.
Today, the Teddy Roosevelt Terrier remains a beloved breed among those who appreciate their energetic personality and intelligence. They continue to excel in various activities, including agility, obedience, and as loyal family companions.
| Traits: | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Energy: Needs daily exercise and mental stimulation | ✓ | ||||
| Easy To Train: Very intelligent; responds well to positive reinforcement | ✓ | ||||
| Shedding: Low; short, smooth coat sheds minimally | ✓ | ||||
| Grooming: Low maintenance; weekly brushing is sufficient | ✓ | ||||
| Family Dog: Good with families; playful and affectionate | ✓ | ||||
| Watchdog: Alert and will bark to announce visitors | ✓ | ||||
| Beginner Friendly: Good for first-time owners with commitment to training | ✓ | ||||
| Prey Drive: High; strong instinct to chase small animals | ✓ | ||||
| Barking: Moderate to high; alert barkers | ✓ | ||||
| Good with other dogs: Very good. | ✓ |
Health Concerns:
- Patellar Luxation: Kneecap dislocation common in small breeds
- Degenerative Myelopathy (DM): spinal cord disease that causes gradual hind leg weakness and paralysis in older dogs
- Chondrodystrophy (CDDY-IVDD): Genetic condition that causes shortened legs and increases the risk of spinal disc disease
- Primary Lens Luxation (PLL): Painful inherited eye disorder
Please check the Canine Health Information Center (CHIC) and parent breed clubs for health information.
Glossary of general canine health conditions.